WBS Extension for Tenants in Germany
Many students who use social housing do not know exactly how to extend the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in time. This guide explains step by step what tenants in Germany need to consider: deadlines, necessary documents, responsible authorities and typical practical cases. I show how to check notices, securely document evidence and submit applications correctly and on time. There are also notes on which forms are relevant, how to file an objection and when a local court may become competent. The language stays practical and free of legalese so that you as a tenant can act quickly and secure your entitlement to subsidized housing. Using concrete examples for students, I show which deadlines are often overlooked and how copies, lease agreements and enrollment certificates can be used as evidence.
What is the WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a state document that allows eligible tenants access to subsidized housing. The legal basis for housing promotion is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)[2]. For tenants, this means: a valid WBS can be a prerequisite for concluding or continuing a subsidized tenancy agreement.
Which documents do students need?
- Deadline (deadline): Pay attention to the renewal deadline of your office; many municipalities require the application several weeks before expiry.
- Form (form): Use the official application form of the competent office and fill in all fields completely.
- Enrollment certificate (document): A current confirmation from the university is almost always required.
- Lease agreement (rent): Include the current lease so it can be checked whether the apartment is subsidized.
- Additional evidence (evidence): Bank statements, registration certificates or income statements may be required.
Deadlines and procedure
Tenants should submit applications in good time, usually a few weeks before the existing WBS expires. If information is missing, the responsible authority may reject the application; check notices carefully. Tenancy law under the BGB regulates your general rights and obligations as a tenant, such as cooperation duties and deadline calculations[1].
- Submit application up to 4 weeks before expiry (before): Allow time for requests for additional documents.
- Attach complete documents (form): Incomplete applications delay the process.
- Keep copies (documents): Document everything and note the date of receipt.
What to do in case of rejection or delay?
If the renewal is rejected or an authority remains inactive, check the rejection notice and, if necessary, file an objection or lawsuit in due time. Housing or administrative disputes can end up at the local court; inform yourself early about applicable deadlines and whether legal advice is advisable[3].
FAQ
- How early should I renew the WBS?
- Ideally submit the application about 4 weeks before expiry; exact deadlines vary by municipality.
- Which forms do I need exactly?
- Use the official application form from your city or district and include enrollment certificate, lease and, if applicable, proof of income.
- What can I do if the renewal is rejected?
- Check the rejection notice, file an objection and consider legal action. The local court is the competent authority for court matters.
How-To
- Collection: Gather all relevant evidence, including enrollment certificate and lease agreement.
- Form: Complete the official application form clearly and legibly.
- Submission: Submit the application on time and request confirmation of receipt.
- Documentation: Keep copies of all documents and the confirmation of receipt.
- Next steps: If rejected, file an objection and check deadlines for court proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Observe deadlines: Timely application prevents interruption of housing benefits.
- Use official forms: Correctly completed applications reduce follow-up questions.
- Secure evidence: Complete documentation increases chances of approval.
Help and Support
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
- Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - Gesetze im Internet
- Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
